Living in Ongar

Your guide to moving to Ongar

Why Ongar is a good place to live

Living in Ongar is like having the best of both worlds. Located in the tranquil landscapes of Essex, it offers the quiet rhythms of country life while being only 21 miles away from the bustling heart of London. With excellent restaurants and a rich history that includes numerous listed buildings, Ongar offers a vibrant lifestyle. Coupled with the beauty of the surrounding open farmland, this area provides a picturesque setting for residents longing for a peaceful home close to nature yet not too far from city conveniences.

What's Ongar famous for?

Ongar is famous for its tangible ties to history and culture. Home to the Greensted Church, possibly the oldest wooden church in the world, it linkes back to 1066. Then there's St Martin's Church dating from the 11th century, a symbol of the Norman era, while the site of the medieval Ongar Castle (now privately owned) adds to Ongar's illustrious heritage. The area is also renowned for the Epping Ongar Railway, previously part of the London Underground.

Things to do in Ongar

Those looking for things to do in Ongar won't be disappointed. History enthusiasts can explore over 100 listed buildings and Whitening Ongar’s distinctive conservation area. A visit to the iconic Greensted Church is a must and children’s events at the Epping Ongar Railway provide wholesome family fun. Besides, Ongar is surrounded by beautiful countryside trails, ideal for leisurely walks and appreciating the serene landscapes. Meanwhile, the town often hosts local events that provide a closer look at Ongar's community spirit and local culture.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.